NY governor proclaims ‘Aviation Appreciation Month’

New York Governor Cuomo has declared May “Aviation Appreciation Month.” In New York, the aviation industry accounts for more than $50 billion of economic activity every year and employs more than 394,500 people throughout the state. General aviation generates more than $1 billion in economic impact annually in New York, and supports 8,600 jobs.

“We thank Governor Cuomo for highlighting the important role of aviation and general aviation in the state of New York. General aviation and local airports are a vital resource for businesses and job growth, as well as a literal lifeline to small communities throughout the state,” said Selena Shilad, Executive Director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America. “We would like to thank the New York Airport Managers Association for their efforts supporting aviation and general aviation across the state of New York.”

“New York has 148 airports which are utilized by more than 17,000 pilots and more than 8,000 general aviation aircraft across the state,” stated Craig L. Fuller, President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “These airports and aircraft support local commerce, help to facilitate medical care and disaster relief and help to connect communities of New York with the rest of the country. We look forward to working with Governor Cuomo in cultivating public awareness of the importance of the general aviation industry.

“Business aviation is a critical asset to businesses of all sizes, especially in New York. Across the country, the general aviation industry generates $150 billion every year and supports 1.2 million jobs, including over 8,000 jobs here in New York,” stated Ed Bolen, President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). “We thank Governor Cuomo for signing this proclamation and recognizing the vast benefits of business aviation for businesses and communities in New York and across the United States.”

“Local airports are a fundamental part of our national transportation system, supporting local jobs and economic opportunities in towns throughout our country. They allow local businesses to grow without leaving their communities,” stated Henry Ogrodzinski, President of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO). “We welcome this proclamation and look forward to continuing work with Governor Cuomo on issues concerning airports and the general aviation industry as a whole.”

James K. Coyne, President and CEO of the National Air Transport Association (NATA), said, “In addition to their vast economic contribution, general aviation aircraft support the efforts of police, firefighters, emergency medical responders, search and rescue teams, non-profit organizations and natural disaster relief crews which help to ensure public safety. We applaud Governor Cuomo for this effort to highlight the importance of this critical lifeline.”

“General aviation aircraft, and helicopters specifically, are essential tools in business and public safety — and nowhere is that more apparent than in the New York City area,” said Matt Zuccaro, President of the Helicopter Association International (HAI). “The same speed and versatility that saves lives every day make helicopters indispensable in the modern business world. Unlike some other New York State politicians, Governor Cuomo recognizes that value. We appreciate his acknowledgement of the vital importance of general aviation in the state of New York.”